Boss Graham Turner today admitted Shrewsbury Town’s first team hopefuls had given him food for thought ahead of Saturday’s big League Two home clash with Crewe.

Joe Jacobson – now free from suspension – Sean McAllister, Jermaine Grandison, Terry Gornell and Jon Taylor all stated their case for a recall by being part of an encouraging display in yesterday’s 2-1 reserve defeat with Wolves.

In the wake of Tuesday’s lacklustre display in the 2-0 League Two defeat at Oxford Turner had thrown the gauntlet down for yesterday’s friendly at the Wolves training ground.

Striker Tom Bradshaw also stepped up his return from a near four-week absence with a knee injury with a 40 minute outing.

“Wolves had a very strong side out with the majority having played a number of games for the first team,” said Turner.

“It was 1-0 to us at half-time and in the second half we again gave a good account of ourselves but Wolves got a couple of late goals.

“It was good experience for the young lads and there were some good performances which gives me some interesting selection decisions to take ahead of the weekend.”

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Ben Smith has admitted it is vital Town end their hunt for a first League win quickly to ensure they remain in touch with the early season pace-setters.

“We know we are better than what we showed on Tuesday and Saturday is a massive game because we don’t want to get left behind,” he said.

“We have shown what we can do against Derby but we need to up our game in the League.

“I’m sure we will come out fighting on Saturday.”